From Westhaven to the world: Auckland dragon boating builds international connections
The Auckland Dragon Boat Association (ADBA) is helping take Auckland's dragon boating community to the international stage, strengthening relationships with dragon boating organisations and civic leaders in southern China.
Following the visit of Guangzhou's Liede Dragon Boat Team to the 2026 Auckland Anniversary Day Dragon Boat Regatta – the first time the team had raced in New Zealand – ADBA representatives travelled to Guangzhou and Zhuhai as part of the Auckland Sport and Cultural Exchange Delegation.
For many Auckland paddlers, Westhaven Marina is home. It’s where teams train, new paddlers first experience the sport, and visitors enjoy paddling on the Waitematā Harbour with the Harbour Bridge and Auckland skyline as the backdrop.
During the visit, ADBA met with dragon boat organisations and senior city leaders to discuss future sporting and cultural exchanges. The discussions explored opportunities for more teams from Guangzhou and the Greater Bay Area to visit Auckland, while creating pathways for Auckland paddlers to compete in China.
The growing relationship has been supported by Wayne Huang, Founder and CEO of ShareBoating Ltd, who introduced ADBA to the Liede Dragon Boat Team and helped establish the connection between the two dragon boating communities.
As Auckland's home for dragon boating, Westhaven is proud to support a community that continues to build friendships, cultural connections and opportunities that extend well beyond our shores.
If you’re interested in finding out more about dragon boating in Auckland, visit the Auckland Dragon Boat Association website or follow their Facebook page for news, events and opportunities to get involved.
Check out some highlights from Guangzhou's Liede Dragon Boat Team's time in Auckland below.
